2. In the bleak mid-winter Frosty wind made moan, Earth stood hard as iron, Water like a stone; Snow had fallen, snow on snow, Snow on snow, In the bleak mid-winter, Long ago.

3. Our God, heav'n cannot hold him, Nor earth sustain; Heav'n and earth shall flee away When he comes to reign. In the bleak mid-winter A stable-place sufficed The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.

4. Angels and archangels May have gathered there, Cherubim and Seraphim Thronged the air - But his mother only, In her maiden bliss, Worshipped the Beloved With a kiss.

5. What can I give him, Poor as I am? If I were a shepherd I would bring a lamb; If I were a wise man I would do my part, Yet what I can I give him - Give my heart. Christina Georgina Rossetti (1830-94)